Experience in Jaen, Spain by Conchi

What is it like to live in Jaen? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I was living in Jaen for 4 years and I have a good "memory" of the city. Although it isn´t very large, it is a good place for living.
The university is great!!
You also have the shopping mall and the city center where you can go for shopping, having a drink, relaxing, etc.

What is the student lifestyle like in Jaen?

My student lifestyle was very simple.
I went to class every day.
Tuesday and Thursday nights we went out, Tuesdays to Morrison and Thursdays to Kharma.
Some nights we went for "tapas" or some evenings to city center or mall or bulevard park... that is, simple life. :p

How much does it cost to live in Jaen?

I think it´s a bit expensive, because, addition to rent, you have to pay bills for water, electricity, heating (if you have), appart from meals, outings, and so on.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Jaen? Is there any advice you can give?

I think this is not a problem for new students, because always there is someone who searchs for a mate, or someone who rents a flat.
My advice is that is better, if you are an erasmus student, stay in a flat with mates of the city because they will help you in everything you need.
And for every, stay with someone who has lived there another year, because he/ she will have experience to help you.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Actually, food was not different for me, because I am from a town of Jaen and it was very similar, and also I had tappex with my mother´s food. But when we went for "tapas" I have to say that everything was good, very tasty.

What places would you recommend visiting in Jaen?

First of all, I recommend to visit the Cathedral since it is very beautiful! Also, the castle, above all, at night is beautiful and very romantic. There are also, "Arab baths", the bullring, and a lot of streets of the old town which are worth to visit.

Is it good to eat out in Jaen? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, when my parents visited me we always went out to eat and everything was good.
I like so much "El Santuario", "El abuelo" , and very near to the University there are 2 or 3 bars very cheap and with good meals.
On the other hand, if you'd rather go to a restaurant my favourite one is "Meson Rio Chico", near to the city center, and there is other near to the cathedral but I don´t remember the name.

Is the nightlife good in Jaen? Where is good to go?

When I was in Jaen, people went out on Tuesdays (to Morrison or Friends) and Thursdays (to Kharma).
It was good, I remember that at first, we didn´t lose a Thursday! :p

What advice would you give future students heading to Jaen?

My advice, as a former student of the University of Jaen, is to use the time, the university they have (with very competent people) but also to live! they can go out, go to cinema, go shopping... there is time for everything.
A good organization from the very beginning makes everything much easier!!